Capital & Operating Budget

Award Winning Financial Excellence

The 2012 St. Louis County operating budget is $308,416,003 which allows the county to carry out its mission and deliver high quality yet efficient services to citizens in the areas of planning and zoning, land and minerals management, solid waste and recycling, public works, health, human services, criminal justice, community development and general government services.  The County Board certified a property tax levy of $110,018,889, which represents a 1.80% increase over 2011.  Property taxes fund 36% of the county's overall budget.  For more information please review the 2012 Citizen's Guide to the Budget.

The budget process provides the County Board and its management staff an opportunity to annually reexamine the services provided within the county.  It is a lengthy comprehensive process that begins early each year.

2012 Changes to the Homestead Market Value Credit

We want you to know.
During the 2011 Special Legislative Session, Minnesota lawmakers eliminated the Homestead Tax Credit.  It was a state program that for many years allowed homeowners to pay a reduced property tax to cities and counties, with the state making up the difference.

As a way to balance the state's budget this summer, the legislature and governor eliminated the program.  They replaced it with the Homestead Market Value Exclusion.  This change will save the state $260 million per year.  Minnesota homeowners, apartment owners, and commercial property owners will make up the difference.

Property tax law is complex.  The state is working on formulas to identify the financial impact for each property.  However, it is clear that most property owners in St. Louis County can expect to pay more taxes in 2012, even if there are no local levies.

This is a state tax decision that is beyond the county's control.  Since your property taxes will be going up as a result, it is important that you are aware of the change. The full impact will be reflected in the Truth in Taxation statements, which the county mails out in mid-November.

If you would like more details regarding this state change in tax law, this webpage will be updated frequently. You're also welcome to contact the county if you have further questions:  budget@stlouiscountymn.gov or call 218-726-2450.